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Crispy Baked Tofu with Italian Herbs Recipe

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3.8 from 46 reviews

This Crispy Baked Tofu with Italian Herbs recipe offers a flavorful and protein-rich plant-based dish that’s perfect as a protein boost for various meals like wraps, pastas, and roasted vegetables. It features extra-firm tofu marinated in a savory blend of tamari, balsamic vinegar, tomato paste, garlic, and Italian herbs, then baked to crispy perfection with golden edges.

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Tofu

  • 1 (14-ounce) package extra-firm tofu

Marinade

  • 1 ½ tablespoons tamari (or soy sauce – ensure gluten-free if needed)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (NOT glaze)
  • 1 ½ tablespoons tomato paste
  • 4-5 small cloves garlic, crushed or minced (~2 teaspoons)
  • 2 teaspoons dried basil
  • 1 ½ teaspoons dried oregano
  • ¾ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ¼ teaspoon sea salt (omit if using soy sauce)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and aid in easy cleanup.
  2. Press the Tofu: Wrap the extra-firm tofu block in an absorbent towel and place a heavy object like a cast iron skillet on top to press out excess moisture for 15 minutes. Alternatively, use a tofu press. This step ensures the tofu gets crispy when baked.
  3. Crumble the Tofu: After pressing, crumble the tofu into pieces smaller than ½ inch and evenly spread them on the prepared baking sheet.
  4. Make and Add Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together tamari, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, tomato paste, crushed garlic, dried basil, oregano, thyme, and sea salt. Pour this mixture over the tofu crumbles and toss gently to coat every piece thoroughly.
  5. Bake the Tofu: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20 minutes. Then, use a spatula to flip the tofu pieces to ensure even cooking. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the tofu is firm, golden in color, and has crispy edges.
  6. Serve: Enjoy the tofu warm or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with wraps, risotto, polenta, creamy pink pasta, pasta arrabiata, pizza, or roasted vegetables for a delicious protein boost.
  7. Store Leftovers: Store any leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days or freeze for up to 1 month. To reheat, warm in a skillet or oven at 350°F (176°C) for 5 to 10 minutes until crispy and heated through.

Notes

  • Ensure tofu is well-pressed to achieve maximum crispiness.
  • Use tamari for a gluten-free option instead of regular soy sauce.
  • Balsamic vinegar must be the liquid type, not the sweetened glaze, for proper flavor and consistency.
  • For best texture, flip tofu halfway through baking.
  • Can be used as a versatile protein supplement in various dishes.
  • Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and crispiness upon reheating.
  • Author: ELLA
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-inspired
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Find it online: https://ellarecipe.com/crispy-baked-tofu-with-italian-herbs-recipe/